Episode Details

What happens when a child is truly seen—and supported—at exactly the moment it matters most?

In this very special episode of Educating the Human Potential, Biff and Nicole are joined by Hawaiʻi Governor Josh Green, who shares a deeply personal story of how Montessori education helped change the trajectory of his life. After beginning his early childhood unable to hear or speak, Josh entered a Montessori classroom at just two and a half years old—where educators recognized his potential and helped him find his voice, his confidence, and his love of learning.

Together, they explore how those early Montessori years laid the foundation for a lifetime of growth—from catching up developmentally, to excelling academically, to becoming a physician, public servant, and now the governor of Hawaiʻi.

In this conversation, they discuss:

• How Montessori supported Josh’s early language, learning, and confidence
• Why early education is the most powerful investment a society can make
• The role of curiosity, independence, and courage in human development
• How education, culture, and compassion shape strong communities
• Why mental health and education belong at the center of public leadership

This episode is a moving reminder of what’s possible when children are given the right environment at the right time—and when adults believe deeply in their potential. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or simply someone who believes in the power of learning, Josh Green’s story will leave you inspired to see every child not for their challenges, but for who they can become.

Contact Us: humanpotential@amshq.org

Educating the Human Potential is a podcast about optimizing education for a better society, through a Montessori lens. Hosts Nicole Coman, a licensed educational psychologist specializing in school psychology and child development -- and a "Montessori mom" -- and Biff Maier, an American Montessori Society Living Legacy with decades of experience as a Montessori educator and school leader, engage with experts, educators, parents, and students. Each episode explores strategies to unlock human potential, offering thought-provoking conversations on learning, child development, and the evolving landscape of education. This podcast is presented by AMS, the American Montessori Society.

For more information about Montessori education, visit https://amshq.org/about-montessori/

And consider this AMS course for families interested in incorporating the Montessori philosophy into their day-to-day lives and parenting approach:
https://learn.amshq.org/parent-course-early-childhood

Contact us: humanpotential@amshq.org